A group of dedicated and caring individuals formed a non-profit 501(c)3 organization with the primary goal of fostering Iranian cultural heritage in the Portland metro area and to meet the cultural needs of the thousands of people of Iranian descent living here. As a result, Andisheh Center – aka Kanoon Andisheh or center of thoughts – was founded in December 1997. The activities of Andisheh were conducted, and continue to be performed, by an all-volunteer group of individuals. Although the participants have changed over the many years, the level of quality, the attention to the needs of the community, and the dedication of the volunteers has not decreased. These people operate Andisheh based on the organizations's Charter.

The Middle East Studies Center at Portland State University promotes understanding of the people, cultures, languages and religions of the Middle East. As a National Resource Center for Middle East Studies under the U.S. Department of Education’s Title VI program, the Center serves as a resource on issues pertaining to the Middle East through activities that reach students and scholars, as well as businesses, educators, and the media. The Middle East Studies Center supports academic conferences, workshops, cultural events, lectures, and a resource library.